Signet rings occur in various ancient civilisations, as they were used to ‘sign’ documents through the impression on hot wax of the symbol on the ring which would lead to the owner. During the Medieval period, seal rings were widely used in trading to ensure the authenticity and security of a document or letter. The social status of the owner was reflected in the size and media of such seal rings, with the combination of motives engraved on the bezel providing further insight into the owner’s identity, such as their personal influence in a family. The Fleur-de-Lis, a stylised three-petalled lily flower, is a common motif used in many ancient cultures with different meanings. For example, it has been a symbol of purity since antiquity, often associated with the Virgin Mary in religious contexts; in heraldry, it is most often associated with French royalty as the French monarchs long used the fleur-de-lis as an emblem of their sovereignty since the 12th century.
